What is IEC 81346-2 Classification?

IEC 81346-2 Classification is a standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides a common framework for classifying technical products and systems. It aims to facilitate communication and understanding among professionals in various industries, such as engineering, manufacturing, and information technology.

The Purpose of IEC 81346-2 Classification

The main purpose of IEC 81346-2 Classification is to establish a consistent and systematic approach to organizing and labeling technical products and systems. By providing a common language and structure, it allows different professionals involved in the lifecycle of these products and systems to easily communicate and share information without misunderstanding or confusion.

Additionally, IEC 81346-2 Classification helps companies streamline their processes related to design, development, procurement, maintenance, and documentation. It enables efficient data exchange, identification, and traceability of technical objects throughout their entire lifespan, from conceptualization to decommissioning.

The Structure of IEC 81346-2 Classification

The classification system introduced in IEC 81346-2 consists of several hierarchical levels and codes assigned to identify different aspects of technical products and systems. These levels include:

1. Reference Designation: This level identifies the overall system or product and provides a unique reference code. It typically consists of letters and numbers that denote the type and function of the object being classified.

2. Function Designation: At this level, the functions performed by the technical object are described. It helps in distinguishing between similar objects performing different tasks within a system or product.

3. Product Identification: This level further specifies the particular product or component, providing information on its unique characteristics and properties.

Benefits of Using IEC 81346-2 Classification

The adoption of IEC 81346-2 Classification offers several advantages to professionals and organizations involved in various industries:

Simplified Communication: By having a standardized classification framework, professionals can easily understand and interpret technical information across different disciplines and industries, improving communication and collaboration.

Improved Efficiency: IEC 81346-2 Classification helps streamline processes by providing a common structure for data exchange and documentation. It enables faster identification, selection, and integration of technical objects, reducing errors and delays.

Enhanced Traceability: With clear classification codes, it becomes easier to trace and track technical objects throughout their lifecycle. This facilitates maintenance, replacement, and repair activities, leading to improved safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Future Compatibility: The IEC 81346-2 standard is designed to be flexible and adaptable to future changes and advancements in technology. It can incorporate new categories and further improve interoperability among different systems and platforms.

In conclusion, IEC 81346-2 Classification provides a standardized framework for classifying technical products and systems. It enhances communication, efficiency, and traceability while ensuring compatibility with future developments. Embracing this classification system can bring significant benefits to professionals and organizations across various industries.